• August 2, 2023

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On July 28, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel introduced new rules that would ensure spectrum certainty for communication services used during commercial space launches.

The new rules would adopt a new allocation in the 2025-2110 MHz band for space operations, expand the spectrum to the entire band for commercial space operations in the 2200-2290 MHz band, and adopt licensing and technical rules for space launch operations. The rules would also amend the allocation for the 399-400.05 MHz band to permit the deployment of federal space stations.

Private companies need access to reliable and predictable wireless communications as they assume a vital role in the launch and operation of space satellites, scientific exploration, and transportation of astronauts.

“We are seeing more commercial space activity at the agency than ever before, and our overall approach as the designated commercial spectrum regulator must reflect that reality,” said Rosenworcel. “These rules will ensure commercial space launches have the necessary spectrum resources for reliable communications no matter their mission.”

If voted for by the full FCC, access to those bands will be granted on a secondary basis. In other words, space stations must avoid causing any harmful interference to primary services and will have to accept any interference from those services.

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Sources:

fiercewireless.com/wireless/fcc-proposes-satellite-spectrum-rules-after-one-win-one-loss-congress

satellitetoday.com/government-military/2023/07/31/fcc-chair-pitches-spectrum-rules-for-commercial-launches/